Kitchen Counter Tiles

Kitchen counter tiles come in all shapes, colors, and sizes to give your countertop a personalized unique look.

Kitchen counter tiles tend to be two to three times more expensive than laminate, but a little cheaper than solid surface material or natural stone. Prices vary according to the quality of the tiles and the complexity of the design. While ceramic tile is highly resistant to stains and heat, it is tough on dropped glassware, and is subject to cracking. It's possible to take out a damaged tile and replace it with a new one, but doing so can be a bit tricky. Cracking is of particular concern in the grout-one hairline crack can lead to permanent water damage, jeopardizing the structural integrity of the tile's foundation. Tile experts recommend epoxy grout, which is tougher and stain resistant. Also, installing tile takes some skill; prior to laying the tile a foundation of plywood must be built. Further, ensuring the grout is thoroughly and gracefully applied can be a challenge for tile-laying novices. It's important to note that some experts recommend tile for areas that endure less abuse, such as a bar, where the grout is more likely to hold up. That said, tile is beautiful and comes in many different colors and designs and allows for endless possibilities in terms of creative design in the kitchen.